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Trusted Tips & Resources

Trusted Regina REALTOR® James Wruth Explains Selling A Deceased Family Member's Home

James Wruth is one of Regina’s most trusted and top-selling Realtors. A member of Remax Crown Real Estate since 2006, James works with families, individuals, investors, and developers in the purchase and sale of residential properties. Since 2006, James has been a consistent Top Producing Realtor, and he has been awarded numerous prestigious distinctions including Re/Max 100% Club distinction, Platinum Sales Award, and Remax Hall of Fame induction. James Wruth is a Trusted Regina Real Estate expert.

James Wruth Explains The Process When Selling The Home Of A Deceased Family Member

I believe that relationships are more important than transactions. I started a career in real estate in 2006, and since that time I have built a Regina real estate business around that philosophy. My goal is a personalized one-on-one service to fully understand you, your real estate goals, and to be 100% accountable to you. In my latest blog post, I explain the process of selling the home of a family member who has passed. 

What Is The Process Involved When Selling The Home Of A Deceased Family Member? 

Unfortunately, I am all too aware that the death of a relative is always a hard time for the family left behind. Not only do you have to navigate the emotional turmoil that is present when someone you love passes, but you may also have to deal with the inevitable real-world details – like liquidating assets and maybe even selling that person's home.

1. The Importance Of An Up To Date Will

If you think their properties will automatically pass to their descendants when they die, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise. If a homeowner dies without a will, or with a will that somehow fails to specify who the deceased’s property is meant for, what happens to the home becomes a provincial decision.

Each province has its own formula for distributing the deceased’s assets that takes priority over the dead person’s wishes.

When a person dies intestate, typically the family will act as administrator of the estate. Section 11 of The Administration of Estates Act lists the persons entitled to apply for Letters of Administration:
  • spouse; children & grandchildren;
  • parents;
  • siblings; nephews and nieces;
  • next of kin of equal degree of consanguinity;
  • creditors; and the official administrator.
Letters of Administration may not be required to deal with assets that are not part of the estate (Part II Assets) such as property jointly owned with the deceased at the date of death, assets with a named beneficiary or assets outside Saskatchewan. Letters of Administration will be required if the estate assets include real estate in order to conduct any land transactions with Information Service Corporation.

Selling a home after a relative dies is what’s known as an “estate sale.”

The term “estate sale” can often be interpreted in different ways. For instance, if you are not a Realtor, you might be thinking that an estate sale is an auction where furniture and other possessions are liquidated. Most real estate agents, on the other hand, think of an estate sale as selling a property for one of the heirs.


2. Transference of real estate after death.

So what happens when the home is going to be sold?

The first thing that needs to be done is to ensure the executor has been given authority to liquidate the real estate. There should be specific instructions in the will about selling the property.

First, look to see if the executor under the will was given power or authority over the real estate. If they were not given authority over the real estate, then the beneficiaries hold the authority and can sell the real estate without the executor’s consent.

Important note: 
If you are going to be selling an estate where there are more debts than assets, this is what’s called being insolvent. If this is your situation it is important NOT to pay any debts you don’t have to— If you pay some low-priority creditors, you could find you are personally liable for the amount you shouldn’t have paid out. For example, don’t pay the landscaper or the telephone bill. These should be paid by the executor once approved.

3. What Happens If there Is a Mortgage Outstanding?

A majority of Canadian homeowners don’t know what happens to their mortgages when they die. Only 28 per cent of respondents to a 2021 survey realize that their mortgage needs to be paid by the beneficiary who receives their properties. It does not disappear, unfortunately, although that’s exactly what 12 per cent of survey respondents think happens to a mortgage when a borrower dies.

Property owners, particularly investors, must also keep in mind the tax bills awaiting their surviving family members. The CRA treats a dead individual’s assets as if they were all sold on the day prior to his death, meaning capital gains taxes on non-primary residents need to be paid – even if the home is left to a beneficiary. Joint ownership of a property with a spouse can provide a clean and legal workaround; otherwise, those left behind will need to foot the bill. 

4. Collect all the necessary documents related to the home.

One of the least enjoyable, but most necessary, things that those left behind need to do is collect all required financial documents. Financial documents are essential for the distribution of the estate, including the home. Without all the necessary documents things become much more complicated.

You may have to search for a while to find everything you need. Often all documents won’t be in the same place. Sometimes people will stash them in hidden places. It is worth the time to search everywhere, including crawl spaces, the attic, and the garage, go through all the boxes and files, and even look under the mattress and drawers.

The documents you will want to gather may include:
  • Will – As explained - If there is a will, it will significantly simplify the distribution of the estate.
  • Receipts from bills – You will need to freeze your relative’s credit and contact all creditors, including the three major credit reporting agencies.
  • Investment documents – Your relative may have had stocks and/or bonds.
  • Insurance documents – There may be a policy from an employer, or one purchased privately.
  • Homeowner’s policy – Keep homeowner’s insurance up to date and increase coverage if necessary.
  • Bank account documentation – You want accurate information on all of your relative’s bank accounts.
  • Personal documents – If your relative had any personal documents, like journals, poetry, etc., you might like to have them at a later date for sentimental reasons.
Once you have gathered all the documents you know, you will need, shred everything else that has personal information on it. It is a common thing for identity thieves to use the social security numbers of the deceased. By eliminating all documents with the number on them, you make identity theft more difficult.

4. Change The Locks and Mail Delivery

When selling a home as an estate sale, it is essential you have complete control of the property. This includes changing the mail, so you receive it in a timely fashion, along with enhancing the home’s security. Keep in mind there are going to be folks who know about the death that took place and the fact the home may be vacant.

You will be surprised how many keys have been given out on a property over the years. Whether it is friends, relatives, the babysitter or various contractors who have done work. It is better to be safe than sorry.

5. Hire a Regina Realtor To Help You Get the Home Ready For Market

After you have processed all the personal possessions of your relative, you will be ready for the actual sale. At this point, you will go through much the same steps as any other home seller – although some minor differences may apply.

I have found that often when selling a home that was owned by an older relative, or a house that has been occupied for decades, there is extra work involved in prepping for sale. This can be one of the most challenging parts of selling a deceased parent's home. The house may be quite dated, including old wallpaper, decorations, carpet, paint, etc. It may also have damage that has gone unaddressed for a long time.

An experienced and reputable real estate agent will provide the best advice on what needs to be changed or repaired before you put the home on the market. If you want to get the best possible price, you may need to make some changes. The most common I see include:
  • Getting rid of old furniture/ window coverings
  • Removing wallpaper
  • Changing dated flooring and/or refinishing hardwood floors
  • Applying a fresh coat of paint
  • Eliminating all signs of pet ownership, like stains and other damage
  • Installing new fixtures and updating lighting
In addition to any changes you make to the home, you are going to want to clean it thoroughly. There is nothing more critical to the sale of a home than a proper cleaning. I may also suggest professionally staging the property if there is not enough appropriate furniture/belongings left after the cleanup. 

Once the home is prepared for buyers, then we can go ahead and list it. As long as you have made the home desirable based on the current Regina and Rea Real estate market, you should be able to sell it for a fair price.

A misunderstanding of what happens to a person’s property once they’ve died can cause extreme distress, both financial and emotional, for her surviving family members. So the best advice I can give is to have your will and paperwork in order as soon as you become a homeowner. In addition, you review your will on a regular basis to ensure it reflects your wishes. 

If you are looking for a Regina Realtor who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest and candid advice, James will be an expert at your side. 

Trusted Regina team brags about James Wruth a Trusted Regina REALTOR®

The Trusted Regina team is thrilled to brag about our newest Trusted Regina REALTOR®. We are thrilled to welcome James Wruth to the Trusted Regina Community of business operated with integrity.  James Wruth is a Trusted Regina Real Estate expert



James Wruth of RE/MAX An Expert At Your Side

James Wruth is one of Regina’s most trusted and top-selling Realtors. A member of Remax Crown Real Estate since 2006, James works with families, individuals, investors, and developers in the purchase and sale of residential properties. Since 2006, James has been a consistent Top Producing Realtor, and he has been awarded numerous prestigious distinctions including Re/Max 100% Club distinction, Platinum Sales Award, and Remax Hall of Fame induction.







A Regina real estate professional known for his extensive market knowledge and his unmatched devotion to his clients, James’s success is based almost exclusively on client referrals. He earns the respect and loyalty of his clients by working tirelessly on their behalf and by always offering them honest and candid advice.

"James is an outstanding Realtor who takes the time to provide unbiased advice around any properties we were looking at in order for us to make an informed decision. His attention to detail professionalism patient manner allowed both my wife and I to confidently assess options and we could rely on him to provide pros and cons while keeping in mind our needs for our perfect home. James always went the extra mile. You have created raving fans out of us both " - Colin Romano- Regional Manager Investment and Retirement planning - RBC Royal Bank 


James Wruth believes that relationships are more important than transactions and he has built his Regina real estate business around that philosophy. 
 
When we sat down with James our team was immediately impressed with his authenticity and professionalism. He has over 15 years in the Regina real estate industry and is clearly an expert who loves what he does. He shared that he has worked diligently to build the business over the years, apart from when he took a year off in 2016-2017. This was because James made the decision to put his career on hold and spend as much time as he could with his father before he passed away in September of 2017. James is a family man through and through and he is a proud father to 3 daughters.  

Community Support.


James Wruth is committed to supporting the community and actively supports many Regina non-profits and charities,  including Children’s Miracle NetworkHospitals of Regina FoundationSouls Harbour Rescue MissionThe Royal Canadian Legion and the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation.


He believes in personalized one-on-one service to fully understand you, your real estate goals and to be 100% accountable to you. If you are looking for a real estate agent who works tirelessly on your behalf and always offers honest and candid advice then James is a perfect choice. 



"The responsibility of selling your home in Regina and area does not come lightly to me. I understand the effort and challenges that surround the decision to sell your current property, and I will provide the real estate expertise, resources and strategies to guide you through it seamlessly. I'm here to provide you with the guidance you need to feel confident and absolute certainty that you are in the right hands." James Wruth


Sell Your Home For The Best Possible Price, With The Least Amount Of Time and Stress!

James Wruth Is A Trusted Regina Estate Agent



Trusted Regina Property Management Company CH Living Regina Rental Property Spotlight - Willowcrest Apartments

 CH Living is Your Trusted Regina Property Management Company With The Best Regina Apartments For Rent! CH Living takes big steps to make their properties a great place to live and call home. They want your Regina apartment rental experience to be positive and long-lasting. Many of their buildings are conveniently located in downtown Regina. The focus of the CH Living Team is on renovations, preventative maintenance, quality materials, and communication. In this article, they shine the spotlight on one of their Regina Properties with apartments to rent Willowcrest Apartments.  


CH LIVING PROPERTY SPOTLIGHT - WILLOWCREST APARTMENTS



This quiet building is ideal for seniors and is situated on Rae Street, just 2 blocks from the Southland Mall. A short walk to many grocery stores, including Save On Foods, which is literally across the street. There are many restaurants and stores close by and the area is well served by Regina Transit.  The building is close to Parkside Extendicare and most errands can be accomplished on foot. This building is professionally maintained by the live-in caretaker Damon Kramer who does a fantastic job keeping tenants happy, and the buildings in smooth operation. Damon puts full care, attention and effort into everything he is involved in. His organization skills allow him to follow-up with tasks accurately and on time, and having a solid background in construction allows him to fix and maintain better than most


This 46 Suite building has 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites available - Foor plans at Willowcrest Apartments range from 680-1000 sqft.

WILLOWCREST APARTMENT AMENITIES














COMING SOON 

New features coming soon to Willowcrest include: updated common areas, fully renovated main floor lobby for fun and relaxing afternoons with family or friends, large brand new gym, and recreation room for those big events

  • Flexible tenancy agreements are available.
  • Security Deposit is equal to one month's rent. 
  • Small Pets are allowed! 

 CH Living is Your Trusted Regina Property Management Company




CH Living Your Trusted Regina Property Management Company Shares 10 Qualities Of A Dream Tenant.

 CH Living is Your Trusted Regina Property Management Company With The Best Regina Apartments For Rent! CH Living takes big steps to make their properties a great place to live and call home. They want your Regina apartment rental experience to be positive and long-lasting. Many of their buildings are conveniently located in downtown Regina. The focus of the CH Living Team is on renovations, preventative maintenance, quality materials, and communication. In this helpful article, they share the 10 qualities of a dream tenant. 


A good landlord will go to great lengths to find a qualified tenant for their rental property. Qualified tenants are those that have a proven track record of financial responsibility and rule-abiding behaviour, indicating their ability to pay rent and not damage the property. But a great landlord will hope for more than just a good credit score and clean criminal background in their tenants. Although difficult to screen for, there are certain qualities that can make a renter stand out as the perfect tenant in their landlord’s eyes.

10 Qualities Of A Dream Tenant


#1 PAY YOUR RENT.

Better yet, pay rent on time! The landlord-tenant relationship revolves around regular rent payments in exchange for a place to live, and making on-time rent payments is one of the most important jobs for which a tenant is responsible. Most likely, your landlord depends on the rent to make the mortgage payment on the rental property so paying rent late can be a financial burden for your landlord. 

#2 TREAT THE PROPERTY LIKE YOUR OWN.

Taking pride in ownership of your rental property by taking care of it will not only ensure the return of your security deposit but also should be reflected in a great landlord recommendation should you decide to move in the future. Normal wear and tear is expected, but preventing tenant-caused property damage is ideal.

#3 COMMUNICATE MAINTENANCE ISSUES.

Even a small leak can turn into a big expensive problem for a landlord. A dream tenant will notify their landlord when they notice any maintenance issue that requires attention. Landlords can provide easy options for tenants to submit maintenance requests online, which can easily be tracked and monitored until the issue is resolved.

#4 DON’T BE HIGH MAINTENANCE.

While a landlord values great communication from their tenant, a renter who constantly complains or requires special attention is a pain. In most cases, you will not be your landlord’s only tenant and only priority. Try to resolve problems on your own, as long as they follow lease terms, before bothering your landlord.

#5 DON’T LET SOMEONE LIVE WITH YOU WHO ISN’T ON THE LEASE.

The lease agreement is designed to protect both the landlord and the tenants. It needs to be signed by anyone over 18 living in the rental property. A good tenant will not sneak in secret roommates and should notify their landlord if they plan on hosting any long-term guests.

#6 KEEP THE RENTAL CLEAN.

A dream tenant will keep the property sanitary as to not invite pest infestation or cause property damage. If the tenant does not keep a clean home, the landlord may deduct the amount paid for extermination or repairs from the tenant’s security deposit per the lease terms.

#7 RENEW THE LEASE.

Managing tenant turnover is expensive and time-consuming for a landlord. A dream tenant will want to renew their lease agreement and hopefully live at the same rental property for a long time. In a perfect world, they would meet every quality of a perfect tenant making the long-term tenancy even more ideal.

#8 KEEP UP WITH TENANT MAINTENANCE.

While the majority of maintenance responsibilities fall on the landlord, tenants may be required to maintain some appliances, manage lawn care, change air filters or replace smoke detector batteries. A great tenant will not only understand and agree to these terms but will actually do it! A tenant’s maintenance responsibilities should be outlined in the rental agreement so they understand their contractual obligation in regards to maintaining the property properly.

#9 FOLLOW LEASE TERMS.

A standard lease will prohibit any illegal activity on the property or any behavior that threatens the safety of the community. A good tenant will uphold these rules as well as other lease terms. Other lease terms that a bad tenant might break typically involve pets or obnoxious parties that disturb other renter’s right to enjoy a quiet environment. Beyond the failure to pay rent, lease violations like these constitute legitimate grounds for eviction, which is expensive and stressful for all landlords.

#10 HAVE RENTERS INSURANCE.

Not only will renters insurance help cover the cost of replacing a tenant’s stolen or damaged personal possessions, it can also cover the cost of damage caused to the property by negligence. A great tenant will have renters insurance so the homeowner isn’t left with a bill due to a tenant being unable to cover the cost of damage to the property or court fees.  The good news is, renters insurance is extremely affordable and costs less than a few cups of coffee a month. Contact CH Living's sister company Campbell & Haliburton Insurance! 

PLUS ONE BONUS ONE – BE HONEST!

The most important quality of a good tenant is honesty. Honesty is so important, it gets its own section beyond the top ten.

If something happens that negatively affects your financial situation and rent becomes unaffordable, a landlord will appreciate honest communication about the issue. While a tenant isn’t required to share all their personal information with their landlord, they are required to pay their rent throughout the lease term. If rent payments suddenly stop showing up, the landlord will have no choice but to move forward with an eviction. If you think we missed anything for what it takes to be a dream tenant, let us know in the comments!

 CH Living is Your Trusted Regina Property Management Company


The Trusted Regina Team Brag About CH Living Your Trusted Regina Property Management Company


CH Living Joins Trusted Regina In The Regina Real Estate Category


The Trusted Regina Directory team is thrilled to brag about our newest Regina partner in our Regina Real Estate Category. We would like to welcome and introduce you to CH Living Your Trusted Regina Property Management Company With The Best Regina Apartments For Rent! 

CH Living take big steps to make their properties a great place to live and call home. They want your Regina apartment rental experience to be positive and long lasting. Many of their buildings are conveniently located in downtown Regina. The focus of the CH Living Team is on renovations, preventative maintenance, quality materials, and communication. That became very apparent when we were speaking to past and current residents as part of the unique Trusted Regina verification process. The folks we spoke to were very impressed with the buildings, the amenities and the helpful and friendly staff at CH Living. 

" I've lived here for a little over six months and have nothing but good to say. From property manager CH Living's staff to caretakers Gale & Dean, they are all so responsive to tenant inquiries. The building itself is quiet and well kept. Lobby was updated a few years ago, as are all the suites as folks move out. Security is good, outside parking nearby. Location can't be beat, between downtown and Wascana Park, and also near the little Broadway strip with grocery store. Shoppers Drug Mart and 7-11 one block away. All manner of salons and spas in the Transition neighbourhood. All appliances are new, air conditioning works, balcony and sunset is a bonus."- L. Zwart - Regina


CH Living has numerous properties with rental units in Regina and they literally have something for everyone. They have number of properties that have apartment rentals for adults only, many of the CH Living Properties are focused on the needs of independent senior living, and they also have several family friendly buildings. You can check out all CH Living properties as well as a list of current Regina apartments available for rent on their website here. If you would like more information on any of the properties or want join a waiting list for a building, simply contact Quinn, Cindy and the CH leasing team, they will be happy to assist.  

A History Of Trust In An Industry Full Of Horror Stories


The “CH” in CH Living is synonymous with Campbell & Haliburton - the CH Group - this is the parent company that was established in 1957, the company has been a landmark to the Regina Cathedral community, and includes sister companies, Campbell & Haliburton InsuranceCH Living and CH Built ( a disaster remediation & renovation company that also does the ongoing maintenance on the CH Living properties). The CH group has a stellar reputation and the integrity starts at the top, with the CH Group President,  John Grant. 

John is a visionary and deeply committed to providing opportunities that benefit all members of society. He is passionate about creating opportunities and a path for success for people living in social exclusion. His dedication and ongoing commitment to our children and families make him a unique and outstanding individual. John was the recipient of the 2021 Association Of Fundraising Professionals ( AFP ) Outstanding Community Partner Award. Learn more about him in the video below. 




Trusted Regina  warmly welcomes John and the CH Living team to the Regina directory of excellence and we are proud to give them the ‘Thumbs Up’! See all they do and read more reviews by clicking on the link below! 

Location, Community, Exceptional Quality ...It's Your Home.

CH Living is Your Trusted Regina Property Management Company



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